ECC Foundation Gala

Celebrating 75 Years: ECC Gala Raises Over $150,000 for Student Scholarships!

The Elgin Community College Foundation’s 2024 Gala: Decades of Dreams, presented by OTTO, celebrated 75 years of achievements with entertainment and fundraising, raising over $150,000 for student scholarships and mini-grants—up 30% from last year.

“This is a special year for ECC and the Foundation,” said Susan Taylor-Demming, executive director. “We’re proud of our students and the Foundation’s impact on reducing their loans. Here’s to many more decades of excellence!”

Nearly 300 guests attended the event, co-chaired by Robin Seigle and Linda Hefferin, EdD. ECC Interim President Peggy Heinrich, EdD, provided a college update, while student scholar Shynecka Manderson shared her scholarship experience. ECC alum Frank Catalano surprised attendees with a saxophone performance.

The gala also honored the 2024 ECC Foundation Award recipients:

• ECC Friend of Education Award: Roger Smith
• Exceptional Friend of the ECC Foundation Award: Rita Shaw
• ECC President’s Lasting Impact Award: Danise Habun and Margaret Frisch

Sponsors included OTTO Engineering, Assured Partners, DLA Architects, and more. 

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